Obituary of Joseph Hirko

Joseph Hirko of Hudson was called home by God on June 20,2015, to be with his heavenly family. At the age of 86. Born to the late Julia Pristas Hirko and John Hirko, he was raised on Warner Street in the Midvale section of Plains. He was preceded in death by brothers Mike, George, John, and Andy; and sisters Mary Cimbak, Helen Kutney, and Ann Paulanka. He was a Navy World War II veteran, serving on the Ship Proteus with his dear friend Joe Ali of Bridgeville, Pa. After the service,he married Geraldine Nutaitis and recently celebrated 64 years of marriage on May 5, 2015. He worked the majority of his life as a professional carpet and tile installer. He also loved wood crafting, making many items for the entire family. In addition to his wife Geraldine, he is survived by his children: Donna Reese, Phoenixville, Pa; Joseph, at home; Carol Walkowiak and husband Clem, Hudson; and Mark, at home;grandchildren Clement Walkowiak, Chris Walkowiak and his wife Debbie, and Casey Walkowiak; great grandchildren Christopher, Cody, and Jacob Walkowiak;sisters-in-law Viola Hirko and Jean Hirko; and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the physician and nursing staff at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital ICU and Post Acute Medical Specialty Hospital for the care over the past nine weeks and the many private physicians for years of care. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association, 1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311, or Alzheimer's Association - Greater Pennsylvania Chapter,57 N Franklin St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701. Funeral service for Joseph will be held on Saturday, June 28,2015, at 9:00 am from the Yanaitis Funeral Home Inc,55 Stark Street, Plains. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 9:30 am in Ss. Peter and Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains. Mass will be celebrated by Rev. John Boyle and Rev. Dennis Grumsey. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hudson. Friends and family may call at the funeral home on Friday evening from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For condolences or directions to service, please access www.yanaitisfuneralhome.com.